Arsenal’s long run of clean sheets came to an end in dramatic fashion as Brian Brobbey’s stoppage-time equaliser secured a 2-2 draw for Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.
The result means Arsenal conceded their first goals since September, ending an impressive defensive streak of 812 minutes, while Sunderland’s spirited display ensured they remain unbeaten at home in their Premier League return.
The Black Cats, who have impressed under manager Regis Le Bris, were rewarded for a bright first-half performance when former Arsenal academy graduate Daniel Ballard fired in the opener, stunning the league leaders.
Arsenal, who had won 10 straight games across all competitions, came out fighting after the break. Declan Rice won the ball in midfield before Bukayo Saka drove into the box and beat the goalkeeper with a low strike at the near post to level the score.
The visitors continued to press and looked set for another victory when Leandro Trossard curled a superb 20-yard shot into the top corner to make it 2-1. Moments later, Martin Zubimendi struck the woodwork as Arsenal pushed for a third.
But Sunderland refused to give up. Substitute Brian Brobbey, who had already seen one effort saved by David Raya, made no mistake deep into added time, hooking in a loose ball in the fourth minute of stoppage time to spark wild celebrations among the home fans.
The draw leaves Arsenal seven points clear at the top of the table, though second-placed Manchester City could cut the gap when they face Liverpool on Sunday. Sunderland’s point lifts them to third, maintaining their impressive unbeaten home run.
Sunderland Analysis: Black Cats Show Their Fighting Spirit
Sunderland’s return to the Premier League continues to exceed expectations. Having already beaten Chelsea at Stamford Bridge last month, this battling display against the league leaders showed their growing confidence and resilience.
Manager Regis Le Bris deserves credit for his tactical approach, using every detail — including moving advertising hoardings closer to the pitch to limit Arsenal’s long throws — to unsettle his opponents.
Led by their captain Granit Xhaka, who relished facing his former club, Sunderland pressed aggressively and refused to back down. Their determination paid off as they grabbed a deserved late equaliser.
No team has scored more late goals than Sunderland this season, with five coming after the 90th minute — a testament to their never-say-die attitude.
Arsenal Analysis: Frustration After Rare Slip
For Arsenal, this was a frustrating evening. Their defensive solidity, which had matched a 122-year-old club record of eight straight clean sheets, finally cracked under pressure.
After turning the game around with goals from Saka and Trossard, it seemed Mikel Arteta’s side were heading for an 11th consecutive win. But lapses in concentration in stoppage time cost them two vital points.
Despite remaining firmly in control of the title race, Arsenal’s late collapse serves as a reminder of how relentless the Premier League can be. Arteta will hope his side learn from this setback as they prepare for a crucial run of fixtures ahead.
